You know you have to. When the sun comes out, so should the sunblock. True, sunblocks from even the recent past were unpleasant – thick, sticky, uncomfortable and often leaving a white, ashy cast on the face. But no more!
The new generation of sunblocks are incredibly lightweight and comfortable. The technology behind these new formulations has really elevated them into products that you’ll want to use. Many of the ones specifically for the face work extremely well-layered with makeup and even serve as an excellent primer or base.
Most importantly, these sunblocks are all super performers. They’re all broad-spectrum, meaning they block both UVB (those than burn) and UVA (those that cause visible signs of aging) rays. UVB rays represent only about 5% of UV, so when most people focus on signs of tanning or burning as an indication of sun exposure, that’s incorrect. You want to protect against UVA rays as well, which are around all year long, even on cloudy days.
Applied correctly, you’re covered for two hours of sun protection. So rub, spray and dab your way through another glorious sunny summer – without the skin damage.
VICHY
Vichy’s all new Ideal Soleil sunblocks contain Mexoryl technology, which is one of the best, most robust broad-spectrum UV blocker on the mass market. For the body, Ideal Soleil Mist (SPF 30 and 50, $31.95) is a dry spray with an invisible, lightweight finish.
Anik Kerr-Denis, pharmacologist and medical relations leader at Vichy, recommends the “3+4=7” rule when applying mist or spray sunblocks: three seconds for each arm, including hands; four seconds each for torso and back; seven second for each leg, including feet. She also cautions that, “It’s not enough to simply spray the product on the areas. It is crucial to spread the product with your hands in large circular movements.”
For the face, Vichy’s Ultra Light Fluid (SPF 30 and 50, $25) has a water-light texture that dries to a matte finish without a trace of ashiness.
Available at London Drugs.
Éminence
For natural and organic options, Éminence has a couple of stellar products. The Tropical Vanilla Body SPF 32 ($52) is like a luxe body lotion with a non-greasy and mildly-sweet finish.
It contains herbal ingredients such as shea butter, zinc oxide and vanilla. For the face, Sun Defense Minerals (SPF 30, $58) is a fabulous, portable, all-in-one mineral makeup with brad spectrum protection. This innovative powder brush comes pre-loaded with natural minerals and micronized zinc oxide, in six different shades. The powder is hypoallergenic, non-pore clogging and is water-resistant. This is a fantastic option for quick reapplication during the day.
Available at select spas and retailers.
Clarins
Clarins’ Sunscreen Care Oil Spray SPF30 ($35) is another new sunblock spray that delivers impressive protection with ultimate convenience. This is a dry-oil formula that’s lightweight and greaseless, protecting face, body and hair from the sun, saltwater and chlorine. This mist is water- and sweat-resistant.
Available at Sephora, London Drugs and select department stores.
Avene
Avene, a French pharmacy superstar, has several new impressive sunblocks out this year. High Protection Spray SPF 50+ ($32.50) delivers a milky liquid in a fine spray. Its light texture dries quickly, leaving a non-oily, non-sticky, dry finish. Lovely on face as well.
Very High Protection Mineral Lotion 50+ ($30) is a 100 per cent mineral option, ideal for those with truly hypersensitive skin who can’t tolerate chemicals, and for kids – it’s not only non-irritating, but also contains vitamin E and is very soothing on sensitive skin. This is a water-resistant formula that’s thicker than all other sunblocks mentioned here, so it’s best to warm the product in your hands a bit before applying.
Available at London Drugs.
Skinceuticals
Skinceuticals’ Physical Fusion SPF 50 ($42) is another 100 per cent physical sunscreen (no chemical filters) with a lightweight, watery texture. A common problem with physical sunscreens is that they leave an ashy, chalky cast – Physical Fusion tackles the problem by introducing a sheer tint that is fairly adaptable to most skin tones except for the very dark. Looks aside, this sunblock is a top performer that feels good on the face, evens out skin tone, is water-resistant and won’t clog pores.
Available at select medi-spas, dermatology offices and online at SkinCeuticals.com/